We meet our guide at Ankara Train Station early in the morning. After a brief orientation and security checks, we board the Van Lake Express and begin our train journey.

As our train heads eastward, it passes through Kayseri, Sivas, and Erzincan. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, small villages, and vast steppes, the journey offers both a peaceful and enchanting visual feast.

We spend the night in the train car. During the journey, our guide shares insights into the unique aspects of the train experience and the cultural fabric of Eastern Anatolia.

The train arrives in Van early in the morning. After arriving, we check into our hotel and, following a short rest, begin our city tour of Van.

Our first stop is Van Castle, an impressive structure dating back to the Urartu period that offers a panoramic view of Van. Our guide provides a detailed account of the castle’s history, architecture, and the ancient settlements surrounding it.

Next, the tour of Van’s city center begins. Here, we’ll stroll among the city’s stone buildings and have the opportunity to explore Van’s unique handicrafts and souvenirs.

For lunch, we’ll have the chance to discover Van’s famous culinary culture. In particular, the Van breakfast and local dishes are must-try highlights of our tour.

Evening is free time, and we’ll stay at our hotel in Van.

After breakfast at the hotel, we head toward the fairy-tale scenery of Lake Van. Akdamar Island, which we’ll reach by boat, will be one of the most impressive highlights of our tour.

The Akdamar Church we’ll visit on the island is an architectural masterpiece that has survived from the 10th century to the present day. Our guide will provide a detailed account of the church’s history, Armenian culture, and the significance of the Lake Van region. We’ll take plenty of photo breaks amidst the lake’s turquoise waters and snow-capped surroundings.

After returning from the boat, we head to the city center of Van. We offer a short shopping tour and the opportunity to purchase Van’s famous honey, breakfast items, and souvenirs.

In the evening, a walk along the Van shore and free time. Overnight stay at our hotel in Van.

After breakfast, our journey begins toward the natural beauties of the Van region. Today’s destination is the Muradiye Waterfall. In winter, the waterfall transforms into a true natural wonder with its frozen appearance; our guide will explain the region’s history and the formation of the waterfall.

Later in the day, we’ll stop for short photo breaks amidst the diverse views of Lake Van. We’ll then return to Van city center for some free time.

Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.

After breakfast, the final day of our tour begins. A short period of free time is provided in Van city center. This is an ideal opportunity for guests who wish to shop or see Van’s beauty one last time.

Later, a transfer to Van Ferit Melen Airport is provided with a guide, and the tour concludes with the flight.

• Van Lake Express train ticket between Ankara and Van

• 2 nights’ hotel accommodation in Van

• Breakfasts

• Boat transfer to Akdamar Island

• Professional guiding service

• All sightseeing tours and photo stops as per the itinerary

• Lunch and dinner

• Museum and historical site entrance fees (ticket for Akdamar Church included)

• Personal expenses